AARP Presents Songs of Soul and Inspiration
By: AARP | Source: AARP | Date Posted:
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Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime line-up of female vocalists, including Yolanda Adams, Patti Austin, Shirley Caesar, Jamia, Chaka Khan, Queen Latifah, Dionne Warwick, CeCe Winans, and Ann Nesby appearing with Paris Bennett.
Live and in concert June 21, Philips Arena, Atlanta, GA
Songs of Soul and Inspiration honors the musical legacy of the African American church and the extraordinary voices that flowed from the church into the worlds of popular music and film. As young women, these prodigies took their powerful and poignant calling out to a bigger world, and made their way to recording studios, stages and concert halls, their voices bending, twisting and stretching to new heights. Over time, each woman became a star, building an ever-widening audience, eager to hear both her hit records and her unwavering messages of hope and inspiration.
"I am very excited to help AARP celebrate its 50th Anniversary,” said Patti Austin. “Through ‘Songs of Soul & Inspiration,’ I hope that we will play a part in inspiring all generations to make their voices heard."
The event will feature a wide range of musical genres and vocal styles. On display will be the intimate jazz of Patti Austin, the silky pop of Dionne Warwick, the funk ’n’soul of Chaka Khan, the re-styled hip hop of Queen Latifah, the traditional gospel of Shirley Caesar and the contemporary gospel of Yolanda Adams and CeCe Winans. The songs in the program will be wide ranging as well, all with messages of hope and inspiration.
The mega-event is directed by Golden Globes, Emmy and Tony award-winning producer and choreographer, Debbie Allen.
Underscoring the power of music to connect people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life, Anne Nesby will pair her R&B stylings with her 19-year-old granddaughter Paris Bennett, one of the top 5 finalists on the fifth season of “American Idol.”
The event will trace -- through story and musical performances—how the African American church, with fluttering fans and clapping hands in the background, nurtured and encouraged the mysterious gift of voice. Said Yolanda Adams, “It is my desire that all those assembled on June 21, at the Philips Arena will have their souls and hearts inspired by the music that will go forth.”
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